Butler Questionable for Road Trip

Bulls InsiderSam Aggrey reported this afternoon that Jimmy Butler did not practice today and his status for the Bulls’ upcoming road trip is uncertain.

During last night’s game, Butler left during the third quarter but ended up returning a short time later in the fourth quarter. After the game Butler mentioned to reporters that he was in some pain. Unfortunately he may have understated the amount of pain he was feeling as Butler was forced to sit out at practice today. Coach Tom Thibodeau informed the media that Butler would be getting an MRI this afternoon.

Thibodeau did not have an answer for who may replace Butler in the starting lineup if he misses Thursday’s game. Mike Dunleavy Jr. and Kirk Hinrich would be the two leading candidates to be the next man up. Hinrich may have a slight edge on Thursday because Denver has been using smaller lineups this year featuring both Ty Lawson and Randy Foye.

This is not great news for the Bulls as Jimmy Butler has struggled at times this season to find a good flow offensively with the return of Derrick Rose. Many were expecting a breakout season from Butler this season, but it just hasn’t quite clicked for him thus far and this injury certainly won’t help.

About Eric Nehm

Eric is a graduate journalism student who loves to spread himself as thin as humanly possible. His interests involve broadcasting, long form writing, and terrible puns. You can find Eric on Twitter at @Eric_Nehm